“I run because if I didn’t, I’d be sluggish and glum and spend too much time on the couch. I run to breathe the fresh air. I run to explore. I run to escape the ordinary. I run…to savor the trip along the way. Life becomes a little more vibrant, a little more intense. I like that.” —Dean Karnazes
Our running enthusiast Mr. Jadageesh KP also feels the same! I am sure you are curious to know more about his running triumph, aren’t you? Come let’s read it up!
It was in February 2011, when Mr. Jagadeesh KP – KPJ (49), perfect Bangalorean, Electronic Engineer and CEO of a German Company, thought of taking up a course in handwriting analysis. What has handwriting analysis got to do with running? Puzzled? Here I take you through the running journey of Mr. Jagadeesh KP who recently accomplished 100KM Bangalore Ultra Run on Nov 8th 2014.
For him, the handwriting analysis course was a stepping stone where he learnt about positivity and progressivity. From here, he wanted to measure his progress, his growth. He then choose running to do so. His first ever long run attempt was the TCS 10k run in 2011, where he took 65mins to hit the finish line. His next focus was to run a half marathon (21kms) in January 2012. By then he had realized the energy that he had was not enough. He had recognized that, “Running is real and relatively simple, but it ain’t easy!” He was just a bare body trying to achieve something, great. He was now looking for guidance and training.
He lacked strength and his seek for guidance and training seemed futile until he met Mr. Mahesh accidently at Lalbagh during his morning run. KPJ expressed his interest to run and Mr. Mahesh suggested meeting Mr. Harish Krishnappa (HK) at Rashtrotthana Fitness Center, Bangalore. When they met, KPJ mentioned about his will to run a full marathon (42kms) in August 2012 to Mr. HK. There it was! KPJ’s running journey took a leap. He started training and successfully completed the run in 5hrs 45mins, but couldn’t walk a step post his run.
“The will to win means nothing without the will to prepare.” -Juma Ikangaa, 1989 NYC Marathon winner
This did not kill the passion inside him. Though he struggled to walk, he was determined to train further. Next in line was the Mumbai full marathon in 2013. 30km was up and he was injured, but his perseverance was still alive and strong. He just wanted to finish his run, and he did manage to do so by 300mts walking and 700mts running until he hit the finish line. He surprised his gym mates when he went back to his workout the very next day of his run. He had all his heart on to what he was doing! Running J
He was now sure he was under the right person to get trained. His next accomplishment was the 75km Ultra Run in November 2013, and he stood first in his category. By now, he had seen a lot of difference in himself, and also his plan for the coming year was set in coordination with his coach.
2014 Accomplishments
- JAN- Mumbai Full Marathon (42km) – in 4hrs 17min
- MAY – TCS (10KM) – in 50mins
- AUG – Hyderabad Half Marathon (21km) – in 2hrs
- AUG – Sriram Properties Bengaluru Marathon 12Hrs Stadium Run – (6am to 6pm)
- OCT – Bangalore Marathon (42km) – in 4hrs 30mins
- NOV – Bangalore Ultra Run (100KM) – in 15hrs 18mins – First in his category
2014 has been a great year for Mr. KPJ to have accomplished one of the long distance run, The Bangalore Ultra Run of 100km. He started training for the same from the beginning of the year that ended on a good note – Finish Time – 100km in 15hrs 18mins.
10kms to 100kms — Now we know what true determination and proper training can do! Isn’t it?!
Future Running Plans
What was your training pattern?
- Training at the gym to gain strength
- Proper eating habit (diet)
- Rest (sleep)
Three days at the gym and three days of outdoor run. Long distance cycling (100 to 150kms) once or twice a month. This sums up to:
- Gym
- Cross training
- Running
His last thought before a race is “Why am I doing this?” And his first thought after a race is “When can I do this again?”…Now that’s a true passion!
What is running for you?
Running is my passion. I enjoy my run and it’s a personal time that I give for myself. It helps me measure my focus. And, I meditate while I run! It has made my life simple.
“Every day is a good day when you run.” -Kevin Nelson
Do you like going to the gym?
I am happy to enter the gym any given day. The first thing I want to do every day before my mind starts to think is to exercise. Hitting the gym is like getting my body and mind charged for the rest of the day.
What are the benefits of exercise/running/gym according to you?
Gym and exercise makes you fit and increments your determination. Running enhances your confidence. It is more of mind work than your physical efforts, and therefore, it makes your mind strong. It makes you humble, you can see a different ‘you’. It teaches you to be patient and changes your vision of life.
How expensive is running?
Well, if one spends on lavish dinners, movies and alcohol and feels buying proper running gear is expensive, then yes running is expensive! (Laughs) …. This answers the question.
What is your biggest support?
My family, my couch Mr. Harish Krishnappa of Rashtrotthana Fitness Center, my determination and my passion to run are my biggest support.
Your advice
One should give themselves time to do what they love to do. It’s not just running, but any sport. Get on to doing it with a lot of passion and proper guidance. If running is what you love, like I do, then get hold of that coach for better training, guidance, monitoring and motivation. Have patience and put in your 100%. Have faith on your trainer, and on yourself to achieve your goals.
Rashtrothana Fitness Centre 